WHAT IS THE STAGE MANAGEMENT (B.F.A.)?
A student-centered pre-professional program that combines hands-on experience and theory with a liberal arts education. Stage Managers exist in the thrilling intersection of artistic intent and logistics and are expected to create and maintain infrastructure to facilitate shared goals. Stage Management students focus on developing managerial and artistic instincts as well as emotional intelligence. They learn and apply common practice in theatrical production as it exists in the commercial and non-profit sectors of the industry and explore variations in practice across many arenas in the performing arts while sculpting a unique professional style of their own.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Students looking to develop as a leader and project manager in the ever-changing entertainment industry. Ideal candidates possess an understanding of inclusive practices and social equity, as well as a collaborative instinct.
WHAT WILL YOUR FOUR YEARS LOOK LIKE?
YEAR ONE – FOUNDATIONS
To encourage community and respect across disciplines, the entire first year Center for Theatre and Dance class takes foundational courses such as Introduction to Professional Theatre, Race & Theatre in The United States, and Technical Theatre Practicum.
Additionally, first year Stage Management students take core management and production & design classes including Stage Management Foundations, Stage Management Practicum, Theatrical Production Foundation, and Theatrical Design Foundations.
From day one, students are welcomed into the Center for Theatre and Dance’s Mainstage productions as members of a stage management team. Students will progress through roles like Production Assistant, Assistant Stage Manager, and Stage Manager.
YEAR TWO – SKILL BUILDING
Second year Stage Management students develop their skills through exploration of the finer points of the production process and gain greater fluency in the language of their colleagues. Students are introduced to variations of practice and progressive management theory in classes like Stage Management, Advanced Stage Management, Theatre Design, History of Theatre, and Directing.
YEAR THREE – RESPONSIBILITY, CHANGE, AND LONDON
Third year Stage Management students synthesize the techniques they have acquired and develop an increased sense of independence in applying those skills. Students continue to broaden their artistic knowledge in classes Theatre Tech, Theatre Administration, Music, and electives.
Third year students also have the opportunity, and are highly encouraged, to study abroad at the Ithaca College London Center, where they will immerse themselves in experiential coursework that features internship opportunities, performance classes, Stage Combat, lectures, discussions, weekly theatrical walks through London, and play-going.
YEAR FOUR – SPRINGBOARD INTO THE PROFESSION
Fourth year Stage Management students begin to transition into their careers with advanced and professional preparation classes such as Stage Management Seminar, Theatre Design, and Business Practice.
Additionally, the entire fourth year class in the Center for Theatre and Dance attends Field Studies in New York City: a networking week of panels, workshops, and seminars with CTD alumni who are working in all aspects of the industry. You will hear stories of career triumphs and learn insightful lessons to help you jumpstart your career.